About Us
Founded in 1921, Soroptimist International is a global volunteer movement with a network of around 66,000 club members in 120 countries. Advocating for human rights and gender equality, at the heart of Soroptimist International’s advocacy is its work across seven UN Centres, where our UN representatives ensure that the voices of women and girls are heard. Our membership work on grassroots projects that help women and girls achieve their individual and collective potential, realise aspirations and have an equal voice in communities worldwide.
Soroptimist International of Calgary (SIOC) was chartered in 1934. We are a Calgary volunteer organization Investing in Dreams of women and girls locally and globally, through access to education.
Our founding members are famous for their pioneering efforts both in their professional and Soroptimist careers. Today our membership spans three generations, with many diverse interests, but we are united by a desire to volunteer for women in Calgary and around the world. Our name, Soroptimist, means “best for women,” and that’s what the organization strives to achieve. Soroptimists are women at their best, working to help other women to be their best.
Note: The use of the words “woman”, “women”, “girl”, “girls” on this site includes anyone who identifies as female.
In The Community
Soroptimist of Calgary members determine the focus of volunteer work in our community. In addition, Soroptimists participate in organization-wide programs including Soroptimist Live Your Dream: Education and Training Awards For Women (formerly the Women’s Opportunity Awards), and the Soroptimist Dream It Be It Program, and Live Your Dream.org and Dare To Dream Award. Through these programs we are INVESTING IN DREAMS and empowering women.
Louise Johnson is the 2023 recipient of the prestigious Francis Wagner Award for 2023
The Francis Wagner award is given out each year to a Western Canada Soroptimist who has demonstrated outstanding achievements in service to the community. In winning this award, Louise is described as a leader, cheerleader, supporter, and mentor for everyone she connects with.
Louise began her 48-year love affair with Soroptimist in 1975. Working tirelessly is support of the Soroptimists, she has served as chair of many committees, held several board positions, and has served as President more than once. Louise has also served with Soroptimist International of the Americas, been Governor of the Western Canada Region, and helped charter SI of Central Alberta. In addition, Louise initiated Soroptimist International of Calgary’s partnership with Shoppers Drug Mart which has benefited Highbanks moms. She currently holds a lifetime membership with Soroptimist International of Calgary and is involved with our Live Your Dream Alumni program.
Outside of Soroptimist, Louise is a Pharmacist (retired) and has volunteered with numerous organizations including the PARTY program – Prevent Alcohol & Risk Related Trauma in Youth, Discovery House, and the Women’s Centre.
Louise Johnson truly represents the ideal of being a Soroptimist, all of the time.
